Chicago Cubs Star Nearing Return From Injury

The Chicago Cubs continue to be one of the top stories in baseball this season. They have kept up their hot form of play in the second half of the season, proving that they are legit playoff contenders.

This has also occurred while many of their established players have been placed on the injury list or underperformed, forcing the front office and manager David Ross to call up prospects.

Now, it looks like the Cubs will get some good news as their star pitcher is nearing a return from his injury that's sidelined him since Aug. 1.

Taylor McGregor of Marquee Sports Network reported, "Marcus Stroman threw live BP yesterday. He feels good. Will throw another bullpen in days to come."

He has been in Arizona, rehabbing his fractured rib cartilage that was sustained when sideline for right hip inflammation. The right hander was placed on the IL after posting a 9.11 ERA in July, easily his worst stretch of the season.

Prior to that, Stroman was one of the top pitchers in the league this year, recording a 2.47 ERA through 17 starts before July.

With the 32-year-old working his way back, there is a thought that he could come out of the bullpen if he does return this season. There has been no timetable released about when the righty could be activated, however with Chicago playing at the Arizona Diamondbacks this week, they'll be able to assess him in person.

Getting Stroman back would be huge for the Cubs. They need as many top arms as possible during the final stretch of the season and into the playoffs. Whether he is as a starter or comes out of the bullpen will be a boost to the staff, regardless of what the decision is upon his return.